Lindsey Graham Calls Laura Loomer ‘Toxic,’ Urges Trump to Distance Himself
J. Scott Applewhite/AP
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) isn’t the only Republican encouraging former President Donald Trump to sever ties with MAGA activist Laura Loomer. On Thursday, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) joined the chorus, warning Trump about Loomer’s divisive reputation.
Andrew Desiderio of Punchbowl News reported that Graham advised Trump to distance himself from Loomer, calling her “toxic” and cautioning that the situation could escalate. “Make sure this doesn’t become a bigger story,” Graham told reporters, urging Trump to address the issue before it causes further damage.
Loomer, a far-right figure known for spreading conspiracy theories and making overtly racist comments on social media, wasted no time responding to Graham on Twitter. “Lindsey Graham has never been loyal to President Trump,” Loomer wrote. She referred to an incident where Graham was booed off the stage at a Trump rally in his home state, claiming it was due to his perceived disloyalty. “He probably shouldn’t be giving out advice to Donald Trump,” she added.
Loomer then launched a more personal and inflammatory attack on Graham, fueling long-standing rumors about his sexuality. “When is Lindsey coming out of the closet?” she wrote. “We all know you’re gay, Lindsey… And that’s ok. It’s 2024. There’s nothing wrong with gay people. I like men too. You and I have something in common we can bond over. Just be honest about it.”
Loomer’s presence on Trump’s campaign plane this week has raised eyebrows, even among some hardcore MAGA supporters. Known for her extreme views, Loomer has become a divisive figure within the movement. In fact, she is one of the few Trump allies deemed too extreme even by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, who has also urged Trump to distance himself from her.
As Trump continues to navigate the 2024 election cycle, his association with figures like Loomer could pose challenges, especially as prominent Republicans like Graham warn of the potential fallout from aligning with such polarizing personalities. Loomer’s recent remarks and escalating rhetoric highlight the tension within Trump’s camp and underscore the risks of embracing far-right influencers whose views may alienate more mainstream voters.
